bit-tech Shopping: Capcom Monster Hunter Freedom 2 (PSP)

Rating: 8

Time with product: 4 Months

Strengths: Nice graphics, immersive gameplay.

Weaknesses: Steep learning curve, options can be overwhelming.

Summary: This game is for the player who likes lots of options and wants to play a game for many hours. If you have a short attention span, this game probably isn't for you. It has some sweet graphics, and there are lots of quests and tasks to keep you busy. There are seemingly limitless items and improvements you can make to your character. All of these options and just trying to figure out what to do took a bit of time for me to learn, but it is a fun game.

Rating: 8

Time with product: 2 Weeks

Strengths: Everything you could want...

Weaknesses: ...but crammed into a PSP

Summary: MH Freedom 2 is a fantastic game. It has a lot of depth and tons of gameplay. However, for a game of such detail, to have it squashed into a PSP seems a bit of a disappointment. It's okay on the protable, but lets hope they make a nex-gen version of this game. There are tons of quests, a nice mix of grinding and character options and weapons, and a good multiplayer portion with co-op.

Rating: 6

Time with product: 2 Months

Strengths: deep and varied, graphics

Weaknesses: maybe too many options/items

Summary: I can see why this title has a very devout following. It?s deep and varied in it?s gameplay. It?s not just about slaying monsters but foraging, building and surviving. There are too many items and weapons to keep track of and you?ll need to do a bit of experimentation to find the right weapon/armor/clothing to use for each mission (250 apparently, haven?t been that far yet). The only bummer is the camera controls. They?re a bit difficult to control in the middle of a battle. However, if you stick with what it has to offer, you should find it an enjoyable title. Just don't expect to finish it in a week or two. This issue alone makes it a mixed bag for me.